Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or a gray-weathered tropical hardwood. — Juglans nigra

Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or a gray-weathered tropical hardwood.

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant to insects and rot.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine-to-medium textured grain with subtle cathedral and occasional wavy figure; appears flat-sawn.

Color & Appearance

The surface is gray-brown, likely weathered or oxidized; walnut heartwood is normally chocolate brown to purplish brown with paler sapwood and develops warmer amber tones indoors.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant to insects and rot.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; premium clear or figured stock may exceed $25.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The board appears recently machined but weathered or surface-aged; actual tree age cannot be determined visually.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turning.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though irregular grain can cause localized tear-out; predrilling is advisable.

Finish Recommendations

Sand to 180–220 grit, remove oxidation if desired, then use dewaxed shellac, lacquer, oil, or polyurethane; test first because color can vary.

Notable Features

Fine texture, attractive natural luster, moderate dimensional stability, and characteristic walnut color beneath the gray surface.

Learn more about Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or a gray-weathered tropical hardwood. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 9, 2026